Thousands of festive visitors braved chilly rain on Saturday to sample the traditional Christmas delights at Clayton Dickensian Market.

The streets were jam-packed with families soaking up the seasonal cheer at the popular event, now in its ninth year.

To the accompaniment of live music and a jolly street organ, the crowds were treated to a wealth of festive fayre, including roast chestnuts, rainbow-coloured cup cakes, traditional sweets and hot, spiced drinks.

There was a vast array of Christmas present ideas on offer, as well as greenery to deck the halls of every style of local home.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, summed up the mood when she said: “This is a fantastic annual event.”

Ian Evans, on the market’s organising committee, cut a fine figure in Victorian-style brocade as he welcomed all to the bustling event.

He said the day-long market attracted an average of 4,000 visitors. This year’s event included ten stalls run by the organising committee, helping to raise money for the market’s nominated charities of 2013, Crossroads Care, Guide Dogs for the Blind and Clayton Estates Community Action Group.

A highlight of the event was the crowning of Snow Queen, Sophie Hibberd, who sat on a glittering white throne flanked by her attendants, Katie Parr, Aurora Park and Rhiannon Menie.

Other entertainment included music from Clayton C E School Choir, local band, Friga, and Christmas songs from Bradford Ukes.